The expanse of waters that stretch from the coast of Labrador to the northeast corner of the island of Newfoundland is aptly known as Iceberg Alley, and is one the best places in the world to see ancient giants as they gently float south.
These massive icebergs are towering slabs of 12,000-year-old ice that range in colour from snow white to deep aquamarine and have their own unique shape and size. They can be as small as a boat or as large as an office tower — each iceberg has its own story to tell.
Take in the icebergs from land, from a boat, or from up close in a kayak. Each offers an incredible perspective of these natural wonders and will leave you with memories for a lifetime. Imagine watching rivulets of icy water pour from crevasses, and catching the blue-green flashes of submerged corners of these icy giants just below the water line.
If you're lucky, the crew might net small chunks of the iceberg and throw them in your drink. In fact, Newfoundlanders make good use of the icebergs in Iceberg Water, iceberg spirits like Iceberg Vodka, Gin and Rum and, of course, Iceberg Beer brewed in St. John's at the famous Quidi Vidi Brewery.
As you cruise the waters of Newfoundland and Labrador in search of ice, you might also encounter playful dolphins, majestic humpback whales, and a variety of birds, like gannets and the fan-favorite puffins. Consider the wildlife viewing a bonus.
It's in the spring and early summer that the waters fill up with icebergs, with May and June being peak months to head out and see them.
Start planning your date with these monoliths, with the help of Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism.
It's time to explore North America’s most north-easterly point, where the dramatic coastline, mighty fjords and wonderful wildlife will take your breath away. With a knowledgeable leader to guide the way, you’ll experience a landscape that has been shaped by the elements over thousands of years, hike easy yet spectacular trails, and enjoy delicious picnic lunches surrounded by the splendour of Newfoundland’s famous scenery. Watch huge icebergs bob past the town known as “The Iceberg Capital of the World” in the spring, go whale watching, and spot puffins at one of North America’s best viewing sites.
This comprehensive tour features the best of "the Far East of the Western World". Travel from the northernmost tip of the island of Newfoundland to the most easterly point in North America through national parks - including Gros Morne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn of ancient peoples - the Maritime Archaic, Vikings, and Basques - as you travel to coastal fishing communities to meet the friendly and hospitable people of today. Boat tours provide the opportunity to see whales, thousands of seabirds, and, depending on the time of year, icebergs! Sample the local food and drink to become an honorary "Newfoundlander"!
The Rock proudly shows off its rugged geography, dramatic history, distinct culture, and world-famous hospitality – half an hour ahead of Atlantic Standard Time! The Titanic sank off Newfoundland’s wild and foggy coast and the telegraph announced its tragic fate from Cape Race. Watch huge chunks of ice (that break off Greenland glaciers) drift by in “Iceberg Alley.” In the wee fishing villages, strain to decipher the local dialect and breathe in the salty ocean air of remarkable Newfoundland.